Beckham undergoes surgery, set to miss World Cup

The 34-year-old suffered the injury in AC Milan's 1-0 win over Chievo on Sunday and flew to Finland for an operation performed by one of the world's top specialists.

"So far everything is fine," surgeon Dr. Sakari Orava told Reuters. "The operation went smoothly and nicely."

Orava was asked whether the midfielder would be able to play in the World Cup in South Africa starting on June 11.

"No, I don't think so...healing takes a long time," he said.

Beckham's foot will be in a cast for around six to eight weeks, after which he can start "more vigorous" physiotherapy.

Beckham, England's most capped outfield player with 115 appearances, had been bidding to play in a fourth World Cup.

"I am upset but want to thank everyone for their messages of support," Beckham said on his official website. "I hope to make a swift and full recovery."

England coach Fabio Capello said Beckham's likely absence was a "big blow."

"I am very sad for David that he has suffered this injury," Capello said in a statement on the FA website.